Alcoholics Anonymous Beginners & Refresher Class Sessions Prepared by Mike & Kathy L, West Orange, NJ Revision 1.0 May 5, For additional copies visit http://back.to/aabasics on the Internet ____________________________________________________________________________________ 64 removed. It does not exist for us. We are neither cocky nor are we afraid. That is how we react so long as we keep in fit spiritual condition.” (Page 84, ¶ 3 and page 85, ¶ What a remarkable set of promises for drunks that atone time had no hope at all. We’re promised that by the time we get to Step 10 the booze battle will have ended, we won’t need to fight with alcohol or anything else for that matter. It says the problem is removed (remember: the main problem of the alcoholic centers in the mind – so according to this paragraph we’re restored to our right minds) And alcohol continues to not be a problem for us ifwe keep in fit spiritual conditioning and continue to do the things God wants us to do. It’s important to remember that we are not cured of alcoholism but God will keep us safe and protected provided we draw close to Him and perform his work well.” The first full paragraph of page 85 further explains this: It is easy to letup on the spiritual program of action and rest on our laurels. We are headed for trouble if we do, for alcohol is a subtle foe. We are not cured of alcoholism. What we really have is a daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition. Everyday is a day when web mustb carry the vision of God’s will into all of our activities. How can I best serve Thee—Thy will (not mine) be done These are thoughts which must go with us constantly. We can exercise our willpower along this line all we wish. It is the proper use of the will. (Page 85, ¶ Practicing Step 10 on a daily basis takes discipline and commitment. It’s not always easy to admit when we’re wrong and to ask God to remove the obstacles in our path which have always caused us to be blocked off from Him, ourselves, and our fellowman. But we have to or else we pay the penalty of a drinking spree. And once we have entered the world of the Spirit our function is to be of utmost help to God and the people in our lives. And acting out on our defects will not place us in a position to be helpful, and will ultimately, over a period of time, cause us to drink again. That we know for certain!
